Pericardiocentesis Explained
Posted on: November 17, 2023 *Updated on: May 25, 2024Pericardiocentesis is a medical procedure designed to alleviate fluid accumulation from the pericardium – the protective lining encasing the heart – which is also where pericardial mesothelioma originates. The accumulation of fluid around the heart can exert pressure and hinder the heart’s ability to efficiently pump blood.
Procedure Insights: During pericardiocentesis, a healthcare professional employs either an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) or X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) to gain a visual understanding of the heart’s structures and pinpoint the exact location of the fluid buildup. Guided by the imaging, the medical practitioner determines the optimal insertion point for a hollow needle. Subsequently, the needle is substituted with a slender catheter that effectively drains the accumulated fluid surrounding the heart. Given that pericardiocentesis involves the heart and its adjacent tissues, medical personnel diligently monitor the patient’s blood pressure, pulse, and cardiac performance prior to, throughout, and subsequent to the procedure.